It's official: Mozilla sets Guinness World Record

It’s official: Mozilla set a new Guinness World Record for the largest number of software downloads in 24 hours for the 8,002,530 downloads of Firefox 3!

Here's the PR:

Mozilla Sets New Guinness World Record with Firefox 3 Downloads

Massive grassroots community effort behind world record for most software downloads in 24 hours

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. – July 2, 2008 – Mozilla today announced it set a new Guinness World Record for the largest number of software downloads in 24 hours. The record-setting 8,002,530 downloads coincided with the launch of Firefox® 3, Mozilla’s major update to its popular and acclaimed free, open source Web browser.

Mozilla enthusiasts worldwide drove more than 1.7 million pledges to download Firefox 3 on Download Day, hosted regional download “fests,” and added Download Day buttons to their sites, resulting in more than 40 million impressions. The global Mozilla community has been celebrating the historic goal of establishing a Guinness World Record with parties in more than 25 countries, including a 24-hour long download fest celebration called Camp Firefox at Mozilla’s Mountain View headquarters.

“The enthusiasm and creativity of Firefox fans was instrumental in achieving this record,” said Paul Kim, VP of Marketing at Mozilla. “Our community members came together and not only spread the word, but also took the initiative to help mobilize millions of people to demonstrate their belief that Firefox gives people the best possible online experience.”

“As the arbiter and recorder of the world’s amazing facts, Guinness World Records is pleased to add Mozilla’s achievement to our archives,” said Gareth Deaves, Records Manager for Guinness World Records. “Mobilizing over 8 million internet users within 24 hours is an extremely impressive accomplishment and we would like to congratulate the Mozilla community for their hard work and dedication.”

None the less of the lack of a previous record holder, the accomplishment is significant. MS has to step its game up with I.E. 8 and I am encouraged by the steps in the I.E. 8 beta. Hopefully MS can beat that challenge with setting a new record.